Red dragon fruit red-purple flesh, Pitahaya, Pitaya roja, very sweet taste, Selenicereus costaricensis cultivated hybrid, 30-100 fresh seeds
Growing dragon fruit from seeds can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to cultivate your own exotic fruit right at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully grow dragon fruit from seeds:
Growing Dragon Fruit from Seeds
You can purchase dragon fruit seeds or extract them from a ripe dragon fruit. To extract seeds, cut the fruit in half and scoop out the small black seeds from the flesh.
Choose a suitable container. Use a seed tray or small pots with drainage holes. Containers should be around 3-4 inches deep.
Use a well-draining potting mix. A blend of potting soil with perlite or sand works well. Aim for a pH of about 6 to 7.
Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil. You can lightly press them into the soil but do not bury them too deep, as they need light to germinate. Space the seeds about an inch apart.
Lightly mist the soil with water to moisten it without flooding. Keep the soil consistently damp but not soggy.
Place the container in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Dragon fruit seeds need warmth (ideally between 24°C to 29°C) to germinate. If you don't have adequate light, you can use a grow light.
Seeds typically take about 2 to 3 weeks to germinate. During this time, keep the soil moist and maintain warm conditions.
Once seedlings are about 7-10 cm tall and have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground if the conditions are suitable (warm climate, well-draining soil).
Care for the Young Plants:
Water young plants regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or a cactus-specific fertilizer) every few weeks during the growing season.
As the plants grow, provide support like a trellis or stake for the climbing nature of the dragon fruit cactus.
Long-Term Care:
Ensure plants receive plenty of sunlight (at least 6 hours a day), as dragon fruits thrive in bright conditions.
Prune back any leggy growth to encourage bushier growth.
Pests and Diseases:
Monitor for pests (like mealybugs or aphids) and diseases. Treat issues promptly with appropriate organic pesticides or horticultural oils if needed.
Growing dragon fruit from seeds takes time and patience, as it may take a few years for the plants to mature and produce fruit. Be aware that the fruit from seed-grown plants may not be identical to the parent fruit, especially if it is from hybrid varieties. However, the journey of growing your own dragon fruit can be a fulfilling endeavor. Enjoy your gardening!